The research group “Plastic Busters – Biomarkers Laboratory” (https://plasticbusters.unisi.it/) is involved in projects and studies aimed at the sustainable exploitation of fisheries resources and in the research of applications for sustainable solutions in aquaculture.
In particular, the research group focuses on:
a) assessing the accumulation of emerging contaminants and microplastics in species with high ecological and commercial value intended for human consumption.
b) conducting study and monitoring programs, together with fishermen from various Italian and Mediterranean fishing fleets, on marine litter on the seabed and evaluating the effects on seafood resources.
c) studying alternative solutions for the reduction of marine litter generated by mussel farming activities, evaluating the application of alternative polymers to conventional plastics, assessing their biodegradability in the marine environment and their potential ecotoxicological effects on target organisms.
d) evaluating the effects of microplastics and endocrine-disrupting compounds in large pelagic fish (e.g., tuna and swordfish).